1. Schedule Your Events on Days you Receive the Most Traffic

Epic receives most of its traffic on weekend afternoons, so Jennifer and her team plan resident events accordingly. “It lets prospects know there’s a sense of community when they walk by, and that they’re not living at just any apartment community,” says Jennifer. Be sure to take your prospect by the Root Beer Float line or Yappy Hour if they have a furry friend during the tour!
 
 
 
2. Ask Residents What Events They’d Like

Epic residents play a fun game of outdoor Jenga. Photo credit: Jennifer Marroquin
 
“You don’t want to plan a big event and find out no one’s interested,” advises Jennifer. “You can’t assume how the residents will respond to an event, so it’s best to ask the residents and also test events/ learn from feedback.” When residents don’t show up, Jennifer and her team ask why. “Learn about your residents,” adds Jennifer, and “dip into everyone’s preferences.”
 
 
3. Showcase the Amenities

Epic residents participate in the Mario Kart Tournament held in the Game Room. Photo credit: Jennifer Marroquin

Since you can’t cover everything inch of the property in a tour, a resident might not know there’s a game room or courtyard on the other side of the community. A resident event is just your chance to show them. “Give exposure to all the amenities. Not only will that encourage the residents to be out, but they’ll build community,” notes Jennifer.
 
 
4. Be patient. Build your audience. 

From Epic’s Facebook page 

After a small turnout and a good amount of money invested, some might say, “Let’s cut the events; no one came.” But Jennifer suggests just the opposite: “No, no. Investigate before calling it quits.” In the first month, only 2 or 3 people showed up to events, but instead of giving up, the Epic team investigated and found that some residents use stairs instead of the elevators. Jennifer began posting calendars through Active Building and Facebook.
 
 
5. Post your Events Calendar Everywhere! 

Jennifer has a design background and is able to create engaging collateral

Last but not least, make sure your events calendar is everywhere. Have it in the office, with copies ready to be handed out; in the gym; in the elevator; staircases; all common areas!

 Want to host your own Resident Event but need some ideas? Click here.